​This poem is a tribute to all of the parents out there who are truly and authentically trying their best to guide their children the best possible way that you can. All children are unique, but we love them all the same!

I was inspired to share this poem with you by my friend Tina's story today when she paid tribute and wished her son, Greg, a very happy birthday because of the shear love that poured out of her while she told us how he changed her life for the better at her tender age of only 15 years of age. Greg is a very thoughtful young man today and it amazes me how time really does fly and how it grants us these unique experiences with our babies.

Being a parent for me, was such a pretty scary yet exciting chapter in my life. I knew that I wasn't a perfect father, but I had no doubt that I wasn't going to make serious mistakes just because. I have given of myself unconditionally to my children as many of you have and the rewards are amazing! Especially when they are confident enough to pursue their dreams and to discover their authentic self without the weight of fear in them.But let me assure you that I did not do this alone. My amazing wife, Joanne, was there for me every step of the way. It was great team work and it made it just that much rewarding. Will there be challenges along the way? Of course there will be! You know darn sure that you're not going to get off that easy from the parenting duties. You're gonna have some payback for what you did or did not do for your parents. Its the order of life. But rest easy, you can learn to respond many different positive ways to situations if you just take the time to google it, go on youtube, or ask a counselor like me for some advice. You have the power to seek resources for anything you feel you are struggling with. Remember, if you don't make the investment in your kids, no one else will and if they do, it probably won't be something that yo will be too happy with.

Love your kiddos, treasure them - but don't do everything for them. Allow them to spread their own wings, expand their own minds, and find their passion and love as to why they came into this beautiful and abundant Universe.